I would like to hold an Avatar themed amateur film festival along with awards which will be handed out during an awards ceremony hopefully during Avatar Banzai 2014 (An Avatar convention in Utah)?
But first I want to a committee put together to lay out the guide lines. For example, I would like films to focus on original animation, but I am also thinking of stuff like documentaries and other stuff that may include cinematography or choreography. I want feedback and opinions from others so things can be ironed out and set in stone.
So far, the person in charge of events seems to have given it the orange light but she understandably wants the rules set out before it gets out of the garage, but since I still don’y have a subcommittee, I’ll ask you guys for input.
As I give the present tentative rules, I’ll do it as theoretical FAQ’s
Q: Is this the same thing as an Avatar Music Video?
A: No. The animation must be original. No footage of preexisting Avatar may be used
Q: Is this the same thing as a fandub?
A: No. Again: The animation must be original. No footage of preexisting Avatar may be used. Furthermore, the story must be original.
Q: Is this the same thing as a CMV?
A: No. As much fun as it may be to do a live-action version of an Avatar, we cannot risk to compromise copyright issues, even if it is not profit. Again, the story must be original.
Q: Is this similar to HISHE?
A: Somewhat, in that the animation is original, but again, the story must be completely original. As much fun as it may be to make a favorite fanfiction or doujinshi come to life, we cannot risk to compromise copyright issues, even if it is not profit. This also applies to parodies.
Q: Can any footage of an existing Avatar be used?
A: No. Only in documentaries as this may be permissible as commentary.
Furthermore, the goal of the animation contest is for local artists to develop their skills of animation.
Q: How long can it be?
A: As of yet since this is the first year, I would be content of a 5 second cartoon, otherwise a maximum of 2 hours.
Q: What of sex, violence, and nudity?
A: Nothing above PG or that can be shown on network TV. Keep it family friendly.
Q: Who can enter?
A: I would like to limit to people of the inter-mountain west United States. Sorry, nobody from Serbia, France, or the like.
Q: What about teams?
A: Teams are not only welcomed but expected if not encouraged. The names (or maybe pseudonyms) of every member must be given and what task they did because awards will be given not just for best picture (overall) but also best directing, editing, character design, screenplay, (voice) acting, musical score, ect.
Q: What music can be used?
A: Most music within the past 100 years or so (I am not sure) is protected by copyrights and thus may not be used. Much classical or other older music is in “public domain” and thus can be used, however recordings are copyrighted by those who performed it so you may need to use sheet music and have someone to perform it or use a computer program. If you have a friend who is an aspiring musical artist and/or composer this may be a good venue to get them exposure and, yes, they would be eligible for awards themselves.
This is what I have so far. Any other questions, suggestions, or better answers?

